Different Types Of Phenomena In Gemstones
Discover the magic of rare gemstones with special tricks of light! These gems are like hidden treasures—not common at all. Phenomena is all about how light plays with the gem’s structure and creates stunning effects. Picture colors changing as you move the gem around. This happens because of things like scattering, bending, and more. There are many ways light dances with gems. Some are easy to see, like a gentle sparkle, while others are super rare and catch your eye right away. So, if you’re looking to own gemstones that are not just beautiful but also hold a captivating show of light, keep an eye out for these extraordinary phenomena! Let’s explore the various enchanting phenomena that gems can hold.
1. Play of Color
Some gemstones reveal shifting patches of color when moved. Opals hold this colorful secret. It’s like capturing rainbows in a gem, bringing joy and wonder.
2. Chatoyancyle
A streak on the gem’s surface appears to open and close, creating a magical dance under light. This cat-like effect shines in the cat’s eye, tiger eye, etc. gemstones. This is caused by a fibrous inclusion inside the gem.
3. Adularescence
Gems like moonstones and feldspars possess this special trait. It can be white or colored, often a calming blue. It appears like a gentle sheen that moves across the gem from certain angles. This happens because light hits two layers of moonstone inside the gem.
4. Asterism
Asterism – a star-like pattern shimmers on the gemstone surface. These stars can have four, six, or even twelve rays. This starry effect is caused by tiny, needle-shaped inclusions inside the gem. Ruby, blue sapphire, yellow sapphire, and some other gemstones may show this phenomenon. Cabochon-cut gems show this phenomenon better.
5. Iridescence
Think of pigeon necks, butterfly wings, or pearls shimmering with changing colors. This magic, called iridescence, happens when light bounces off surfaces, making rainbows dance before your eyes.
6. Color change (photochromism) phenomena
In this phenomenon, the gemstones change color under different lights. Take the example of the Alexandrite gemstone; it’s green in daylight and red under incandescent light. Gems like garnet, sapphires, spinel, and tourmalines can also reveal surprising color shifts.
7. Labradorescence
Labradorescence, a dazzling iridescent pattern, arises due to gemstone crystal structure. It looks like a metallic light show, inviting you to explore the hidden phenomenon of gemstones. Labradorite gems hold these phenomena.
8. Pleochroism
Pleochroism makes gems show different colors when you look from different angles. It’s because of how light is absorbed in some crystals. Not all gems can do this. Cutting can make it better or worse. Popular gems that have pleochroism are andalusite, iolite, kyanite, kunzite, sphene, and tanzanite.
9. Tenebrescence
Tenebrescence is a super rare phenomenon in gemstones. Some gems change color in sunlight and go back when it’s dark again. We call it ‘reversible photochromism.’ This magic can happen again and again and is always amazing for those who see it.